04732, Ashland, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04732, Ashland, Maine is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.54 percent of residents in 04732 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is A R Gould Hospital with a distance of 18.10 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04732 (Ashland, ME)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Ashland, Maine (ZIP Code 04732) necessitates a deep dive into their access to healthcare, heavily influenced by the available transportation options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the ease or difficulty with which residents can reach essential medical care. The location, nestled in Aroostook County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in this regard.

The primary challenge for Ashland residents is the vast geographic area and sparse population density, which directly impacts the availability and efficiency of transportation options. The town is served by a limited network of roads, with the primary thoroughfare being US Route 1, a vital artery connecting Ashland to larger towns and cities. This highway is crucial for accessing healthcare facilities located outside the immediate vicinity.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor in determining the overall health score. The nearest hospital, Cary Medical Center in Caribou, is approximately a 45-minute drive via US Route 1. This journey, while manageable, can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Maine winters. Access to specialized medical services, often requiring travel to Bangor or Presque Isle, can extend travel times to over two hours, placing a substantial burden on individuals requiring frequent appointments or experiencing acute medical needs.

Beyond Cary Medical Center, residents may seek care at smaller clinics and physician offices within the region. Ashland itself has limited medical services, necessitating travel to nearby towns like Presque Isle or Fort Kent. These shorter trips are generally more accessible, but still require reliable personal transportation. The condition of local roads, including State Route 161, which connects Ashland to the north, further influences travel times and safety.

Public transit options in Ashland are extremely limited. Aroostook Regional Transportation System (ARTS) offers some services within the county, but the frequency and routes are not designed to specifically address healthcare access. The existing routes may not directly serve medical facilities or offer convenient schedules for appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles, while mandated, may be limited, potentially posing challenges for individuals with disabilities. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly lowers the overall health score for residents who do not own or have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are virtually non-existent in this rural area. The low population density and limited demand make it economically unfeasible for these companies to operate. This lack of ride-sharing options leaves residents reliant on personal vehicles, family and friends, or medical transportation services. This further underscores the importance of reliable personal transportation and the potential isolation of those without it.

Medical transportation services play a crucial role in bridging the healthcare access gap. Several companies specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services, while essential, can be expensive and may require advance booking, potentially limiting access for urgent or unexpected medical needs. The availability of these services and their responsiveness to patient needs directly impacts the overall health score. It is important to research the specific medical transport brands operating in the area to understand their coverage, costs, and reliability.

The overall health score is also affected by the demographics of Ashland. The aging population and the prevalence of chronic health conditions increase the demand for healthcare services. The limited transportation options, coupled with the potential for long travel times, can exacerbate health issues and lead to delayed or missed appointments. This can result in poorer health outcomes and reduced quality of life.

For individuals considering moving to Ashland, understanding the transportation landscape is critical. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the availability of transportation options to meet those needs. This includes considering the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of personal transportation, and the potential reliance on medical transportation services.

The availability of healthcare access is a significant factor in attracting and retaining residents. Communities with strong healthcare infrastructure and convenient transportation options tend to be more desirable places to live. Investing in transportation infrastructure, such as expanding public transit routes or supporting medical transportation services, can significantly improve the overall health score and enhance the quality of life for Ashland residents.

Ultimately, the overall health score for residents of Ashland, Maine (ZIP Code 04732) is significantly impacted by the limited transportation options. While the town offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the challenges of accessing healthcare must be carefully considered. The long drive times, the absence of ride-sharing, and the limited public transit options create significant barriers to healthcare access. This underscores the importance of personal vehicles, the availability of medical transportation services, and the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure to ensure that all residents have timely and convenient access to the medical care they need. This is especially important for those considering moving to Ashland, as the health of the community is a direct reflection of the available transportation options.